U.S. Rep. Shelley Moore Capito believes people in today's world - especially members of Congress - are largely losing their abilities to listen.

On Sunday, Capito, R-W.Va., advised young women attending the start of Rhododendron Girls State Sunday at Wheeling Jesuit University to start honing their listening skills now is they ever want to run for elected office or achieve success at any job.

And about 370 high school girls from throughout West Virginia were present in the Troy Theatre to hear Capito's words.

Many voters don't feel their leaders are listening to what they have to say, she said. Capito noted that's why many people want members of Congress to have townhall meetings - so they can tell their elected representative what they think of them and government.

"I've had townhall meetings - that's what they do," she told the girls. "They don't come to tell you how great you are."

She noted that Circuit Court Judge Ronald Wilson, who was also present on stage, has to listen in his job, as do doctors, nurses and teachers.

"Even waitresses have to listen to what people have to say," Capito continued.

She asked the girls to whom we most often listen. They mentioned parents, teachers, ministers, coaches and "weathermen."

One Girls State citizen mentioned "newscasters."

"Now that's a problem," Capito quipped.

She pointed out that they left out the person to whom they should most listen - themselves.

"You have to listen and decide what you think is right for you," Capito said. "You have to be true to yourself. If you learn to do this, you'll go further than you can imagine."

Girls State continues through Friday at WJU.